Sumo Stable Intimate Morning Practice
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Dive into the captivating world of sumo wrestling with this exclusive 4-hour Sumo Stable Morning Practice tour! Join a small group (maximum 16 people) led by an expert sumo guide for an intimate look at a real sumo stable’s morning practice. Equipped with audio headsets, you’ll gain insights into training rituals and techniques as you watch these incredible athletes train up-close. After the session, get unforgettable access – converse and share tea with the wrestlers themselves! To top it off, enjoy comfortable seating with ample legroom and savor a delicious Chanko nabe lunch. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into sumo culture, not to be missed!
Available options
Join-in (Small Group) + Chanko
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Chanko Lunch: Enjoy a sumptuous chanko lunch after visiting the stable
Join-in (Small Group)
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Join-in Sumo Morning Practice: Up close and personal with sumo wrestlers with English-speaking tour guide (local sumo expert)explain throughout the practice
Private Option + Chanko Lunch
Private In-depth Sumo Stable tour with English-speaking tour guide (local sumo expert) tailor to your own group<br/>Duration: 4 hours
What's included
Sumo information and pamphlet
English-speaking guide (local sumo expert)
Morning tea and discussions with sumo wrestlers
Authentic Chanko lunch, discover the daily meals of sumo athletes (if selected)
Photo opportunities with sumo wrestlers
Audio headset to listen to explanations from expert guide throughout the tour
What's not included
Hotel pick-up not included
Drinks are not included at lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How far in advance should I book?
Preparing an event requires some time, especially if reservations for restaurants or other venues are required. We recommend making a reservation as early as possible. Ideally, it should be 3 months before your travel date, or 1 month before the travel date at the very least. We may not be able to arrange your event in time so your booking request may be cancelled and you will receive a full refund.
Seating option: cushions on the floor will be the default seating, but low chairs may also be available upon prior request. Please be aware that low chair seating is limited and will be guests who have mobility issues or other needs will have priority.
Photography: Photography and videography are permitted, but please refrain from using flash. We advise checking your phone’s settings before entering the stable and before capturing any images.
How to sit: Guests are welcome to sit however they please, but we ask that guests do not show the soles of their feet to the ring when seated (for example, extending their legs with their feet showing) as a form of respect.
Age 6 and over. Children must be accompanied by adult (18 or older). Adult pricing applies to all guests of any age. Please note you may be required to show your ID for proof of age at the venue.
Using audio headsets, you’ll clearly be able to hear the expert guide explain the history and culture of sumo wrestling, as well as learn about some of the most famous sumo wrestlers throughout history and today in Japan. Enjoy the intense matches with explanations from your expert guide and cheer on your favorite sumo wrestlers along with dedicated local fans.
Before the tour, please notify us if you or someone in your group will be in a wheelchair. Please note that there is a wheelchair storage area on the first floor of the stable. Guests must be able to climb up one flight of stairs (5 steps) on their own (or with the help from a family member) as staff from the Stable will not be able to assist guests.
No food inside: No outside food or drinks are allowed inside of the sumo stable (guests are allowed to bring bottled water or tea for personal consumption).
A sumo wrestler typically travels to multiple locations throughout the year for tournaments and events, spending only a few months in each place. Our company took advantage of their stay in Tokyo to organize this event, limited entry to stable on a few selected date (see calendar)
What if I’m late?
We ask that all guests arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the designated meet-up time. Since this is a group tour, we may not be able to wait for you if you are late. Please kindly note that if you are late, you will not receive a refund for your booking.
Lunch is included in the tour, featuring an authentic Chanko meal served by sumo wrestlers. The menu changes daily to match the wrestlers’ diet, offering a variety of authentic dishes similar to what they eat.
Lunch is included in the tour, featuring an authentic Chanko meal served by sumo wrestlers. The menu changes daily to match the wrestlers’ diet, offering a variety of authentic dishes similar to what they eat.
Please understand that once we have accepted your request, changes cannot be made one week before the tour date.
Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator in Japan, with hundreds of registered and vetted tour guides nationwide. We offer tours in any location in Japan and manage all details, including transportation and tickets. Visit Japan Awaits to learn more about our tours or inquire about a custom experience today
Meeting point
Meet our guide at the meeting point. The directions to the meeting point will be provided 1 week before the tour date.
Important notes
Meet our tour guide at the meeting point. The directions to the meeting point will be provided 1 week before the tour date.
About Saitama Prefecture
Saitama Prefecture, located just north of Tokyo, offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. Known for its parks, museums, and as a gateway to the mountains, it's a perfect blend of modern living and traditional charm.
Top Attractions
Kawagoe
Known as 'Little Edo,' Kawagoe features well-preserved Edo-period buildings, traditional sweets, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Historical
Half day to full day
Budget to Moderate
Chichibu
A mountainous region known for its hiking trails, hot springs, and beautiful landscapes.
Nature
Full day to overnight
Budget to Moderate
Saitama Super Arena
A multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports events, and exhibitions.
Entertainment
2-4 hours
Variable
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kawagoe Mochi
A traditional sweet made from rice flour, often filled with red bean paste or other sweet fillings.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Saitama Gyu (Beef)
High-quality beef from Saitama, often grilled or served in hot pots.
Dinner
Contains meat
Soba Noodles
Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often with a dipping sauce or in a broth.
Lunch
Vegetarian (check for dipping sauce ingredients)
Popular Activities
Hiking in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park
Canyoning in Mitake Gorge
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Strolling through Kawagoe's historical streets
Visiting temples and shrines in Nikko and Kamakura
Exploring traditional candy shops in Kawagoe
Boating on Lake Chuzenji in Nikko
Skiing and snowboarding in the mountains of Chichibu
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Spring offers cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn provides cool temperatures and beautiful fall colors. These are the most popular times to visit.
10-25°C (50-77°F)
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Saitama is generally safe with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and official tour operators.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services, especially in tourist areas.
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
- Haneda Airport • 30 km (19 miles)
By train
Tokyo Station, Ueno Station
By bus
Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Buster Terminal Tokyo
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and punctual train network covering the entire prefecture and connecting to Tokyo.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Omiya
Kawagoe
Chichibu
Day trips
Nikko
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural landscapes.
Kamakura
60 km (37 miles) • Full day
A coastal town known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha.
Kumagaya
50 km (31 miles) • Half day
A city known for its historical sites and the Kumagaya Onsen hot spring.
Festivals
Kawagoe Festival • Early October
Saitama Gold Theater Festival • Annual (dates vary)
Chichibu Night Festival • Early December
Pro tips
- Use an IC card like Suica or Pasmo for easy and discounted public transportation.
- Visit Kawagoe during festivals for a more authentic and vibrant experience.
- Explore the rural areas of Saitama for stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Try local specialties like Kawagoe Mochi and Saitama Gyu for a taste of the region's cuisine.
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
